Opposition Member of Parliament Rinesh Sharma has voiced significant concerns regarding the government’s ability to effectively tackle violence against women and girls. His remarks follow a recent statement by Sashi Kiran, the Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection. Sharma pointed out a disturbing trend this year, with nine lives lost to intimate partner violence, which speaks to a broader societal crisis intensified by domestic violence. This issue not only devastates families but also carries an estimated economic toll of $300 million annually.
Sharma criticized the government’s reliance on policy announcements and statistical figures, arguing that these do not equate to real, tangible improvements on the ground. He stressed the necessity for a more inclusive approach, acknowledging that threats of violence affect individuals of all genders and ages. In Parliament, Sharma questioned whether the Minister for Women was suggesting that her government’s strategies are falling short, highlighting persistent issues such as the online targeting of women and a troubling backlog of unresolved cases.
In response, Minister Kiran introduced the Fiji National Action Plan to Prevent Violence Against All Women and Girls, a framework developed after discussions with more than 2,000 Fijians. This initiative focuses on addressing the root causes of violence, such as gender inequality and detrimental societal norms. Kiran mentioned several key initiatives already underway, including a review of the Family Life Education curriculum and the implementation of the Pacific’s first National Gender-Based Violence Shelter Guidelines, all aimed at supporting victims and preventing incidents of domestic violence.
Acknowledging the rise in domestic violence cases, Kiran noted that many go unreported due to prevailing societal stigma. She called for community involvement and active intervention, urging families and neighbors to step in when they witness acts of abuse. This call underscores the urgent need for collective commitment to changing societal attitudes toward domestic violence.
Sharma’s advocacy for improved, survivor-centered support services—including shelters and hotlines—coincides with Kiran’s push for a comprehensive approach to addressing domestic violence. Both officials agree on the urgent necessity for unified action to cultivate a culture of safety and respect while enhancing community support systems for victims.
The ongoing discussions surrounding domestic violence in Fiji indicate a growing awareness of the gravity of the issue and the essential collaboration between the community and government to implement effective solutions. This unified commitment suggests a hopeful future where individuals can live without the fear of violence, contributing to a safer and more compassionate society for all.